Portuguese Citizenship by Investment: Find the Best Path to Obtain Your Citizenship in Portugal
Want to obtain Portuguese citizenship but don’t know whether to start the process as an investor or through family heritage? We’ll help you understand which legal path best fits your profile.
What’s the Difference Between Golden Visa and Portuguese Citizenship by Descent?
| Criteria | Golden Visa (Investment-Based) | Citizenship by Descent |
|---|---|---|
| Main Requirements | Minimum investment of €250,000 in funds, culture, research, or job creation | Proof of Portuguese ancestry (parents, grandparents, great-grandparents) |
| Minimum Stay in Portugal | 7 days in the first year + 14 days every 2 years | Not required |
| Time to Citizenship | 5 years holding the Golden Visa, with clean record and A2 language test | Immediate after approval of documents |
| Process Overview | Visa application → renewals → naturalization after 5 years | Submit civil documents and lineage proof directly |
| Best for | Global investors, entrepreneurs, mobility planners | Brazilians or others with Portuguese heritage |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need to invest in Portugal to get citizenship?
To obtain Portuguese citizenship through the Golden Visa, you need a minimum investment of €250,000 in investment funds, scientific research, culture, or job creation. Other options include:
- €500,000 in venture capital or private equity funds
- €350,000 in scientific and technological research activities
- €250,000 in cultural heritage or creation of at least 10 jobs
Important: Investment alone doesn’t guarantee immediate citizenship. You must maintain the Golden Visa for 5 years, meet minimum stay requirements, and pass the Portuguese language test at A2 level.
Is Portugal getting rid of the golden visa?
Not completely. In 2023, Portugal made significant changes to the program:
- Eliminated the option to invest in residential real estate in Lisbon and Porto metropolitan areas
- Maintained other investment modalities (funds, research, culture, job creation)
- Still available for investments in interior regions and the Azores/Madeira
The program still exists, but with a redirected focus toward investments that generate more economic value and regional development.
Can you get Portuguese citizenship if you buy property?
Currently, no through the Golden Visa for properties in major cities. The options are:
- Commercial or industrial properties: Still eligible in some regions
- Island properties: Azores and Madeira still allow real estate investment
- Urban rehabilitation: Properties for rehabilitation in low-density areas
Alternative paths to citizenship:
- Citizenship by descent (if you have Portuguese ancestors)
- Naturalization after 5 years of legal residence
- Marriage to a Portuguese citizen
Can I be a dual citizen of the US and Portugal?
Yes, both Portugal and the United States allow dual citizenship. You can:
- Maintain your American citizenship while obtaining Portuguese citizenship
- Enjoy the benefits of both countries
- Travel with both passports
Important considerations:
- Tax obligations in both countries
- Possible implications for military service (Portugal)
- Consult with a specialized attorney for your specific situation